Running back Chris Rodriguez was all smiles at UK Fan Day. (Vicky Graff Photo)
It’s almost like the only one not worried about running back Chris Rodriguez’s status on the Kentucky football team is Rodriguez.
He was charged with DUI after spring practice ended and pleaded guilty to the offense. Kentucky coach Mark Stoops has not made any announcement on his star running back’s status for this season despite “speculation” by some that Rodriguez might be suspended for a few games.
Rodriguez was not available for interviews at UK’s Media Day last week but he was there smiling and enjoying himself. He was the personal valet for former roommate Chris Oates, who is continuing his rehab from a stroke that has severely limited his mobility. Rodriguez pushed Oates in a wheelchair and also helped lift him into the stands so he could be part of the team photo.
At UK’s Fan Day, Rodriguez was smiling and interacting with fans. Several friends told me he could not have been nicer to their children.
Sam Houston State running back Ramon Jefferson transferred to UK. He’s a big, strong running back and his arrival increased the speculation that Kentucky was preparing to play at least some games without Rodriguez.
But here is what really impressed me about Rodriguez, who has a chance to become UK’s all-time leading rusher if he plays every game this season.
Guess who is Jefferson’s role model? You got it — Rodriguez. The two have been bonding and working out for several weeks now.
“He’s a great person, a model player. I think he is the best running back in the conference or maybe the entire country. Just watching a player like him and his success, you can only just model yourself after him and know it will make you better.”
4 Responses
Wow
He’s taking it all as usual business day like any other day. I would done the same if I was in his shoes.
I surely enjoyed this article. Rodriquez is the real deal. He is UK’s bread and butter on 3rd and short, and if they block for him he can go the distance. I love this young man. He sacrifices his body every time he is given the football. I loved Benny, but C-Rod deserves a shot at his record, He has earned that shot and needs every game to break it.
I believe His ego got out of check. Since his DUI he’s become a better person. If we give him a second chance I’m sure we all will be proud of him as a person and also as a Kentucky Wildcat.
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